Exceltemplates.org – Some experts said that the Roman numerals were developed as a counting system for trade, with the most popular theory said that the numerals began as notches on tally sticks. ‘One” is represented with a single notch. A “V”, which is the fifth notch was created from the double cut of every notch and every ten notch was double crossed, which then formed “X”. Later, the Romans transferred the tally system to designating and writing Roman letters to certain values, I for 1, V for 5, X for 10, etc.
There is also another theory said that the Roman numerals originated from finger counting. Here, every finger represented a numeral. “V” or five represented a hand held upright with the thumb and fingers apart. “X” or ten represented both hands held upright with the two thumbs crossing each other.
Different from any other numeral systems, the Roman numeral system does not have a special character to represent zero. It also has no way to represent decimal or negative numbers. Based on theory, it happens because the numeral system was designed primarily to count and keep track of things for trade.
Even after the fallen of the Roman Empire, the numeral system was still used throughout Europe until the Middle Ages. However, in the 14th century, the Roman numerals were replaced by the Hindu-Arabic system. Today, the Roman numerals are not popularly used in the west. It is only used for certain needs, such as writing the names of popes, kings and queens. It is also still used for writing the year when a book or movie was created.
Roman numerals allow maximum three same symbols standing together. When there are four same symbols, it would be replaced by subtracting it from the next higher number with just one number is subtracted.
In Excel, there is feature that is aimed to convert numbers into Roman numeral system. You can use it when you feel confuse about converting numbers. You can also use it to practice your Roman numeral skills.
It is easy to use the function. You just need to use Roman number in the cell, where you can easily fill the “number” you want to convert or just direct to other cell. Just fill the “form” with “)” if you want to convert into basic Roman numeral system. Excel brings 5 types of Roman numeral conversion that can be easily used by anyone.
We have to say that learning Roman numeral system is something confusing, especially because we have been familiar with the modern numerals. However, students are required to learn about it because they will still find the ancient numerals in some disciplines. There is a Roman numeral chart that you can use to learn that kind of number. The chart was specially designed to help students understand about the Roman numerals. The chart is filled with some different colors. It is aimed to help you differentiate the number that is formed from basic symbols or formed from a combination between symbols. This chart can be downloaded and printed, so you can use it without have to turn on computer.
